Mulligan Management Group, LLC

What NOT having a Business Card Says About You

2011-11-19T12:08:00.001-05:00

This week I attended 3 networking functions, with 30 to 50 people at each function. I was amazed at the number of people I met who didn't have business cards. So, I want to tell you (in my opinion), what that says about you, the idiots that didn't have them.

You are unprepared. You made up your mind to come to a business networking function and you even paid to be there. Instead of bringing 50-60 cards, you only brought 10. What that says to me is either you have more business than you can handle or you just don't think things through. Sorry, but I am not going to remember your name or your business 10 minutes after I leave the place.
You are unprofessional. More times than I care to say, someone will say "Let me write my info on the back of your card." So being polite, I let them do so. Now, let's think about what just happened: a) they wasted one of MY business cards and b) I think they are an idiot for coming to business networking event without business cards!
You aren't serious about your profession. I know there are many start-up entrepreneurs out there who also have another full-time job. They come to networking functions to try and kick-start their business, but they haven't invested the $50 or so in getting business cards. What the hell? Don't even give me a business card with your day job on it, unless you are promoting your day job. Again, I won't remember what you do after I leave.
You really don't want my business. We had a lot of hail damage in the area a few months ago. A man knocked on my door today asking if he could look around my house and possibly give me a quote. I said sure he could look around, but when I asked him for a business card, he said "I don't have any with me because I am driving my wife's car." HUH? You knocked on my door and you don't have any f*@#ing business cards? He asked if he could write his information on post-it note and of course being a sucker, I let him. Then he left and I threw his information away.

So here's my message. I don't care if you are a carpenter, CEO, entrepreneur, or janitor. If you want business, you need BUSINESS CARDS. And you need to have them with you always. So, put some in your wallet, purse, tennis bag, golf bag, glove compartment of you and your wife's car. Just like American Express says, "Don't leave home without them."

i-Meet Announces Peer Marketing Solution

2011-10-18T11:39:00.000-04:00

I recently signed on as one of i-Meet's Global Corespondents, read the following press release to learn more!

i-Meet Announces Peer Marketing Solution

Should You Outsource Your Meeting to An Independent Meeting Planner?

2011-09-23T10:53:00.001-04:00

Many individuals never think of hiring an independent meeting planner because they figure they can handle the workload themselves or they will rely on their volunteers and/or suppliers to pick up the slack. However, in today's fast-paced, dynamic world, you should take a second look at what an independent planner can bring to the table. Here are some ways we can help:

Full Service Meeting Management

This is a turnkey option where the client turns everything over to the meeting planner. When considering this option, make sure to do the following:

Vet their background, (see my website for a good list of questions to ask them)
Ask for references and then make sure to call them
Ask for a listing of partners or suppliers they've worked with before
Clearly define their role and responsibilities and make certain they are comfortable in the project management role
If they have multiple events going on (most of us do), ask them if anything is going to conflict with your event
Make certain you know how many hours per day/week/month you expect them to work on your event, especially as your event draws closer

Logistical Management

This is the "nuts and bolts" of meeting coordination. Typically, independent planners get involved in one or more the following ways:

Plan the food and beverage
Registration and greeting of attendees
Managing the speakers and exhibitors (if you have a trade show)
Crisis management, if something goes wrong
Liaison with all your partners (venue, AV, caterer, sponsors)

When outsourcing logistics, define roles and responsibilities clearly. Include the planner in all communications and schedule regular conference calls with written reports. Initially it may be monthly, but as you get closer the event, communication will probably be weekly or daily.

Site Selection and ContractNegotiation

Independent planners have a plethora of resources and relationships in the industry and are often times better suited to negotiate on behalf of theirclients because they clearly understand the needs of the client and the event. Think of us as you would a real estate agent, we are a neutral third-party who has your best interests at heart.

In order to save you time, independent planners can have all inquiries regardingyour meeting directed to them, thus freeing up a lot of your time.

An independent planner can:

Issue the RFP
Collect the proposals
Compile them into a report with their recommendations
Arrange finalists site visits
Accompany you on the visitsand
Be apart of the final negotiations with the venue.

Fees

You can expect to pay a fee directly to the meeting planner, either an hourly rate, per-project, or percentage of budget, depending on what your perimeters are. Whatever you choose, be prepared to write a check for 25% to 50% of the total estimated fee at contract signature.

Taking the time to understand how an independent planner can help make your event be successful is the first step in determining what you should outsource. Once you have defined all the event planning steps, do an honest assessment of what you and your staff can or cannot do, due to time limitations or knowledge deficiencies. Most experienced planners will take an initial meeting, free of charge, to determine how they can help. Don't let your event suffer! Hire an independent planner today!

De-de Mulligan, CMP, CMM is the President of Mulligan Management Group, LLC, a full-service meeting planning firm in Hudson, Ohio. De-de has over 18 yearsexperience in the areas of non-profit, corporate, and small to medium sized business meeting planning. E-mail her,follow her on Twitter @DedeMulliganor become a fan of her Facebook page.

Good News For Meeting Planners

2011-08-22T19:04:00.000-04:00

In December 2010, US News &W orld Report came out with their listing of "The 50 Best Careers of 2011" and guess what? Being a Meeting Planner was on the list! How awesome is that?

In order to get on the list, U.S. News considered job-growth projections for a 10-year period (2008-18) from The U.S. Department of Labor. These occupations are expected to add jobs at an above-average rate through 2018, as well as, provide an above-average median income. Other factors that determined whether or not the occupation made the list were: overall job satisfaction, low turnover, and impending retirements, which crank up job openings.

As of 2008, there were 56,000 meeting planners in the US and that number is expected to grow by 16% by 2018.

The median pay for a meeting planner was $44,800 in 2009, with a salary range of $25 to $75K.

A bachelor's degree is generally preferred and many planners gain the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from Convention Industry Council to add to their educational level.

However, all this being said, the climate for the meeting industry is changing. Meeting planners are expected to be leaders and visionaries in order keep pace with the ever changing dynamics of the event meeting services industry. According to US News and Holly Duckworth, CAE, CMP who is CEO of Leadership Solutions International suggest that we focus on the following:

Understand and continue to focus on the budget. Budgets are probably not going to grow by a lot, but it is important to understand exactly what areas you can cut and which ones you cannot.
Look at your Return on Investment (ROI) for every meeting. Establishing meeting goals and objectives, tracking them, and then presenting or writing a final report shows great insight and the willingness to say whether or not those objectives were met.
Continue to show the value of Face-to-Face Meetings. With many options out there for attendees, it is important to stress the continued value of F2F gatherings.
Understand the global meeting marketplace. As our economy improves and the dollar becomes stronger, large companies and associations will be looking to host their meetings overseas. Understanding various cultures and meeting venues will bring your own value to the the discussion.
Create a vision for your department and communicate it to the rest of the organization, your partners, and attendees.
Move staff, partners, sponsors and attendees to action. Do you have good project managers in place?
Be a Change Agent. Keeping current and understanding new ways of doing things is very important.

If you are event planning in Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, or Kentucky, look to Mulligan Management Group, LLC as a partner for all your meeting needs. MMG can creatively work within your budget guidelines and provide excellent project management to make your next meeting, trade show, or product launching event really shine.

Best Careers 2011: Meeting Planner - US News and World Report

2011-08-20T10:46:00.000-04:00

Some good news for Meeting Planners!

Best Careers 2011: Meeting Planner - US News and World Report

Think You Know that Meeting Space? You don't know jack!

2011-07-17T19:40:00.000-04:00

Today, I went to Wildwater Kingdom in Aurora, Ohio...I thought for the umpteenth time in the 20 years I have lived in this area. The first many times I went it was Geauga Lake, an old but inexpensive amusement park. Then, in the early 2000s, it was acquired by Six Flags and they tried to expand the park and make the water park a little bigger and different. I decided it buy season tickets for the family because my boys were small then and I thought they would enjoy the rides and water park area.

Boy was I disappointed. The parking lot was full of broken glass and beer cans when we would arrive early at the park some mornings. The clientele looked scary with long hair, multiple piercings, and ragged clothing. I was so glad when that pass expired and I really never gave the park another thought...until today.

Friends of mine came into town from Detroit and they convinced me to join them at Wildwater Kingdom today and am I glad I did. First, Cedar Fair (owners of Cedar Point) now own the park and the first thing they did is move it to the old Sea World location. Second, it is very clean and professionally run. Third, they added great water attractions and cleaned up all the park areas. For $25, it was well worth the admission price. Fun and cool...especially in the 95 degree heat.

So here is my message to meeting professionals...you think you know a certain property, city, or convention center because you had a bad experience a few years back? You ignoring that place because the service sucked? Take a look again...because chances are you don't know jack! Things change, for better or worse, they always do. Sometimes we just aren't paying attention.

I can't wait to go back to Wildwater Kingdom. How about you?

Hudsonhubtimes.com - Hudson Farmers Market opens (with VIDEO and PICTURES)

2011-06-17T15:51:00.000-04:00

I am a Board Member of Hudson Farmers Market. Here is a little taste of what the market has to offer each week through October 1st!

Hudsonhubtimes.com - Hudson Farmers Market opens (with VIDEO and PICTURES)

Convene Salary Survey Highlights the Value of the CMP

2011-06-09T15:09:00.000-04:00

Convene Salary Survey Highlights the Value of the CMP

Alexandria, VA - June 8, 2011 - According to data in the newly released Convene Salary Survey 2011, respondents who were Certified Meeting Professionals earned on average 10% more than those without the designation.

"These results are in keeping with the most recent CMP Census conducted by CIC," stated Karen Kotowski, CAE, CMP, Chief Executive Officer of the Convention Industry Council. "TheConvene survey underscores the fact that obtaining the CMP enhances a meeting professional's earning potential."

According to the report, 45% of respondents had earned their CMP. The average salary for those with a CMP was $76,255 compared to $68,605 for those without.

"The CMP is recognized as the mark of professionalism, commitment and attainment of a high level of knowledge and competency," agreed Martie Sparks, CMP, Chair of the CMP Board of Directors and Vice President of Catering & Convention Services for Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. "Obtaining the CMP can help set the stage for career advancement and improved compensation."

"The results of our survey demonstrate that there's monetary benefit to earning the CMP," saidConvene Editor in Chief Michelle Russell. "We believe so strongly that the designation helps advance the meeting profession that we make our CMP series--which enables readers to earn education hours to certify or recertify for the CMP--a fixture in every issue of Convene."

The Convene Salary Survey is produced annually by PCMA. The 2011 survey was produced in partnership with American Express and was conducted by the research firm Lewis&Clark. The results appear in the June 2011 edition of the publication.

Hell-o-o! Is anyone listening to our client's objections?

2011-05-11T21:36:00.000-04:00

I just fired a client today. Hated to do, but it had to be done.

This client is rolling out a brand new Internet product and they hired me to do marketing research on their product offering. I called on and walked 12 or so prospective clients through the product demonstration and after my 20 minute presentation, I LISTENED and recorded their concerns and objections.

I quickly returned those objections back to my client. I expected that they would do a little research and get right back to me. Instead, I was utterly stunned with my client's response.

They said, and I quote "I have never heard those objections and concerns before with any of our other test prospects, so it must be what and how you are presenting the information."

WHAT, I wanted to say? Instead, I took a deep breath, and repeated their concerns and objections. Again, more gibberish. At this point, I just wanted to slam the phone on the counter 4 or 5 times and say "Are you listening to me? I am telling YOU what YOUR potential clients are concerned about. WHY are you bucking me?"

But, instead, I went about the business of interviewing more prospects, listening to the same objections, and feeding them back to my client, the Internet product company. More stonewalling. More bulls**t.

As far as I could tell, my client had no good response or he was afraid to tell the prospect the truth. Or it took too much of their time to research the answer. Or...you name it.

So, here are the conclusions I had to draw:

Prospective clients are smart and they no longer want to be told what to buy and who to buy it from;
Prospective clients have lots of options where to spend their money and they will spend it where they perceive they are getting the greatest value and;
Prospective clients don't like to be bullsh**ted. Tell them the truth...Only the facts, ma'am.

I fired my client today and I feel damn good about that decision.

Pros and Cons of Hiring Full-Time, Contract, or Outsourced Help

2011-05-09T12:15:00.000-04:00

US Companies, with fewer than 50 employees, added 84,000 full-time jobs to their payroll in April 2011, according to ADP Small Business Report. However, many small businesses are still not ready or in a position to hire full-time but have projects and work to be completed.

It is no longer about who you hire, how you hire. Candidates can come in many varieties and flavors including:

Full- and Part-time Employees
Flex-time and Job-Sharing Employees
Temporary Employees
Independent Contractors or Freelancers

This blog will cite the advantages and disadvantages of all the above.

FULL- and PART-TIME EMPLOYEES

These employees are usually non-exempt and are expected to show up at the company location a certain number of hours and days per week. Most of these positions have a certain hourly or weekly wage and benefits are partially paid for by the employer.

PROS

Employer controls employee hours and days they come into work;
Employee comes into a central work place;
Employee can feel part of a team

CONS

Employees can be more costly than other alternatives;
Health care costs can become a burden as those costs rise;
Maybe difficult to downsize employee if needs in the organization shift.

FLEX-TIME and JOB-SHARING EMPLOYEES

These jobs were originally designed to allow working moms keep their job and job skills up while their children were little. Many of these jobs are designed to completed while kids are in school or perhaps changing of the guard between spouse work arrangements. Nowadays, this is often requested by the "sandwich generation" who needs time to take their parents to doctor appointments and pick the kids up from school.

PROS

Allows for a "win-win" between employer and employee;
Employees are often more focused because they know they have complete their work within a specified period of time;
Allows work to be completed during the off-shifts.

CONS

In a job-sharing situation, sometimes communication can be lost between employees;
If there is crunch-time at the company, the employee may not be available;
There may be more sick days taken due to children's sickness or parental needs.

TEMPORARY EMPLOYEES

These employees are often hired from a temporary firm for a period of time and the employer has the option at the end of that period, to offer the employee a position within the company or return them back to the temporary pool.

PROS

Great for a new position or one you are uncertain may not last more than a few months;
Allows for a variety of personalities to be tested in the position, with no strings attached;
If the person works out and the position is stable, the person can be easily hired as a full-time employee.

CONS

Temporary help doesn't always show up on-time or at all;
It is often more expensive than an employee because the temp agency has to be paid as well;
If the contract is for a long period (i.e. 90 days) and you know the temp is not working out prior to that, it is hard to break the contract early.

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS and FREELANCERS

These individuals work for themselves and often have their own company. They are often corporate professionals who have decided to become their own consultant in a specific field, usually in the industry they just came from. Employers do not withhold taxes or pay them benefits. But at year end, if the contractor completes more than $600 worth of work for that company, the organization must submit a 1099 to the individual.

PROS

Great for short-term, defined assignments that have a start and end date;
These individuals can usually complete tasks in a quick turnaround period;
Independent Contractors or Freelancers bring specialized skills to the table and there usually is no training involved to bring them up to speed.

CONS

They usually have their own company, so they may be completing several projects at the same time;
If the project turns into a long-term commitment they may not be available;
They are not an employee and may not feel part of the team environment.

Take careful stock in your decision as the CEO or President of your organization as to what is best for you.

Mulligan Management Group, LLC (www.mulliganmanagementgroup.com) provides organizations with meeting, event, and social media marketing consulting.

The 2010 Global Innovation 1000: How the Top Innovators Keep Winning

2011-05-06T13:43:00.000-04:00

Great Research on how Apple and others keep on, keeping on:

The 2010 Global Innovation 1000: How the Top Innovators Keep Winning

Virtual Events: Real Results with Real Companies

2011-05-02T09:52:00.000-04:00

Have you been thinking about hosting a virtual event for your organization? Check out this PowerPoint Presentation with companies that justified their events in hard data -- saving time, money, and carbon emissions.

Virtual Events: Real Results with Real Companies

View more presentations from DedeMulligan.

Alternative Community Services, Inc. helps disenfranchised Veterans "Bridge the Gap"

2011-04-29T09:33:00.000-04:00

Check out this press release I wrote about an upcoming and fun event in June.

2 trade shows in 2 weeks with 2 different feels

2011-04-28T20:42:00.000-04:00

Today, I attended Event Expo 2011 at the House of Blues in Cleveland. There were about 60 to 65 booths located on 3 floors and it had roughly 250 to 300 attendees. It was great, and to boot, they had a keynote speaker who had some great advice about planning large special events.

In contrast, 2 weeks ago, I traveled to Chicago to attend HSMAI's Affordable Meetings Trade Show.I dreaded going on the trade show floor and practically knocked over some attendees sprinting back to the food, just so I wouldn't have to make any eye contact with the booth sales persons. Then I walked with my eyes down to the wheel where you could throw your business card into for the chance to win an iPad 2 (didn't win it...would have made that torture worth it!)

How can 2 trade shows that had about the same number of booths and attendees get such a different response from a seasoned planner?

I have been thinking about that very question all day, and here is what I came up with.

LIGHTING. Today's event dimmed their lights low and almost made you feel like you were in your own home (or a very large mansion). The lighting was perfect...not so low you would bump into people, but low enough to make it feel right at home. Bright lighting was at the sucky event.

MUSIC. Every room had some sort of live music playing in it today. Guitar player in one room, orchestra trio in another. Aahhh....perfect. No music in Chi Town.

BOOTH SPACING. The booths were closer together, making the rooms feel crowded, which made me feel comfortable talking to my colleague for 45 minutes in the aisle. I'm talking NO WIDE AISLES! The boring one at Navy Pier wide, wide aisles. I'm not sure how many people they were hoping for, maybe 10,000? Those days are gone...Make it close and cozy.

FOOD. Great food today and what made it even better...they had people coming to little ol' me with samples! Outstanding! That's why I stayed in one spot for 45 minutes. No need to move...the only thing missing was a glass of wine (just kidding Rick). Chicago, bad food, no roaming waiters, and the service staff almost jumped on you if you wanted more food (I'm not kidding).

ROOM SIZES. Again today's event was spread out on 3 floors. Spaces were not that big...it made the event look crowded. Navy Pier was one big space and not that many vendors, so the space looked too big for the show. Remember when you were little and you tried on your mom's dress or your dad's shoes? You get the picture.

So, now you tell me. What else makes a great trade show feel?

Top Google Result Gets 36.4% of Clicks [Study] #SEWatch

2011-04-27T18:53:00.000-04:00

Great information as to why we need to get to Goggle's #1!

Top Google Result Gets 36.4% of Clicks [Study] #SEWatch

Seth's Blog: The opportunity is here

2011-04-24T17:28:00.000-04:00

Interesting Blog about the future of employment:

Seth's Blog: The opportunity is here

10 Reasons Social Media Matters for Today's Event Planner

2011-04-06T21:13:00.000-04:00

Great article about the importance of social media from a planner's point of view

10 Reasons Social Media Matters for Today's Event Planner

Meetings Mean Business.

2011-03-28T15:12:00.000-04:00

Good information about the economic value of meetings and events.

Meetings Mean Business.

Make Your Conference More Lady Gaga-istic

2011-03-11T16:11:00.000-05:00

This is a great blog on how to make your next meeting, event, or conference very special.

Make Your Conference More Lady Gaga-istic

HowardGivner.com

2011-03-05T14:19:00.000-05:00

This is a cute, albeit true account of attendees rights when in meetings. Read on:

HowardGivner.com

The Death of Sponsorship? | Business Blogs

2011-02-20T20:22:00.000-05:00

Very interesting information about creating value for sponsors.

The Death of Sponsorship? | Business Blogs

Hudson Jazz Fest

2011-02-15T15:16:00.000-05:00

Online event registration for Hudson Jazz Fest powered by Eventbrite

SPIN: The Senior Planners Industry Network - Home

2011-02-10T21:10:00.000-05:00

Good summit for Senior Event Planners.

SPIN: The Senior Planners Industry Network - Home

Game - No, the Serious Business - of Give and Take - Meetings & Events | Cvent Events

2011-02-10T21:09:00.000-05:00

Interesting Articles

Game - No, the Serious Business - of Give and Take - Meetings & Events | Cvent Events

What Meeting Planners Can Learn from the Groupon Fiasco at the Super Bowl

2011-02-08T15:54:00.002-05:00

Read this and watch the video to see how to NOT make these mistakes.

http://cypressmedia.net/articles/article/32/seven_reasons_why_traditional_trade_shows_still_matter

2011-02-07T18:04:00.000-05:00

Interesting article on why face-to-face trade shows still matter.

http://cypressmedia.net/articles/article/32/seven_reasons_why_traditional_trade_shows_still_matter

Conference News - Event Management Compaines - PCMA's 55th Annual Meeting Sets Attendance Record - Successful Meetings

2011-02-04T12:55:00.000-05:00

Great article about the integration of hybrid meetings

Conference News - Event Management Compaines - PCMA's 55th Annual Meeting Sets Attendance Record - Successful Meetings

Training location - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

2011-02-01T18:24:00.000-05:00

Ideas on how to choose a Training Location.

Training location - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

25% off Telephone and Email Consulting for Meetings and Special Events - Promotions - Eventective Forums

2011-01-27T13:48:00.000-05:00

25% off Telephone and Email Consulting for Meetings and Special Events - Promotions - Eventective Forums

What Makes A Party Meaningful and/or Fun? - Parties - Eventective Forums

2011-01-08T23:13:00.000-05:00

Check this out!

What Makes A Party Meaningful and/or Fun? - Parties - Eventective Forums

Training location - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

2011-01-08T23:07:00.000-05:00

Some good ideas on training locations

Training location - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

Best Careers 2011: Meeting Planner - US News and World Report

2010-12-17T09:10:00.000-05:00

This is great news for anyone in the industry or anyone who wants to join the field.

Best Careers 2011: Meeting Planner - US News and World Report

Conference News - Research White Papers - PMUSA Previews 2011 Meetings Trends - Successful Meetings

2010-12-04T14:54:00.000-05:00

Great information about 2011 trends!

Conference News - Research White Papers - PMUSA Previews 2011 Meetings Trends - Successful Meetings

Holiday Party Offer -- Take 10% off by mentioning where you saw this offer - Promotions - Eventective Forums

2010-11-22T18:22:00.000-05:00

Holiday Party Offer -- Take 10% off by mentioning where you saw this offer - Promotions - Eventective Forums

2010-11-22T07:04:00.001-05:00

http://hiyatal.t35.com/

Mobile & iPad Event Registration Solutions Deployed At LCWE 2010 | Suppliers

2010-11-10T20:27:00.000-05:00

Mobile & iPad Event Registration Solutions Deployed At LCWE 2010 Suppliers

Very Interesting Article about FAST Meeting Registration!

30th Birthday Party HELP~~ - Parties - Eventective Forums

2010-11-10T18:19:00.000-05:00

30th Birthday Party HELP~~ - Parties - Eventective Forums

NEED A ROOM FOR LARGE BABY SHOWER IN THE NORTHERN KENTUCKY AREA - Parties - Eventective Forums

2010-11-09T16:49:00.000-05:00

NEED A ROOM FOR LARGE BABY SHOWER IN THE NORTHERN KENTUCKY AREA - Parties - Eventective Forums

Check out my answer by clicking on the response.

Eventective - Forum Add Post

2010-11-09T16:37:00.000-05:00

Eventective - Forum Add Post

Looking for a promoter for our events, any advice? - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

2010-11-08T13:11:00.000-05:00

Looking for a promoter for our events, any advice? - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

Hikes in Bed Tax Rejected

2010-11-04T16:32:00.000-04:00

San Francisco voters rejected a proposed tax hike on hotels that could have pushed hotel occupancy taxes to 17.5 percent. Hotel unions had supported the measure saying that it would increase quality of life in the city; tourist officials said the proposed tax was a stifling attack on business. Similar tax hikes were also rejected in Missouri.

Looking for a VENUE for Company get together - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

2010-11-04T13:56:00.000-04:00

Looking for a VENUE for Company get together - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

looking for event venue to hold 500 plus - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

2010-11-02T13:48:00.000-04:00

looking for event venue to hold 500 plus - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

2010-10-26T11:35:00.000-04:00

Dnt Of Department of Commerce Says Business Travel Grew In 2010 . . . Newly released Commerce statistics say business travel jumped 19 percent during the first 6 months of 2010.

What Makes Jim Traficant So Controversial?

2010-10-17T12:11:00.000-04:00

James A. (Jim) Traficant, Jr. was born in Youngstown, Ohio on May 8, 1941. He received BS and MS degrees from the University of Pittsburgh. He also received an MS from Youngstown State University in 1976. From 1981-1985 he served as sheriff of Mahoning County, prior to his election to the U.S. Congress in 1984. He was re-elected by overwhelming margins every year up until 2002 when, following his conviction on corruption charges, he was expelled from the House of Representatives.

What make Jim Traficant so controversial?

What do you want to know about him?

Respond to this blog posting and let us know what you want to know. We will forward your questions directly to Jim.

Come see Jim Traficant in person by signing up for the ASIS International Akron-Canton Chapter and SACS Consulting sponsored event on Thursday, October 28, 2010 from 7:30 to 9:30 am at Ohio Prestwick Country Club in Uniontown, Ohio. It is $20 per person, payable at the door, and all are welcome. A reservation is required and can be made by calling Alma Gasper from SACS Consulting at 330.255.1101 x306 or email at alma@sacsconsulting.com.

What Makes Jim Traficant Interesting?

2010-10-10T19:07:00.000-04:00

The hair, the leisure suits, and the fact that he is out of prison -- but perhaps not out of northeastern Ohio's heart -- makes former Rep. James Traficant very interesting.
Released from federal prison last year after serving seven years on corruption charges, the former congressman known for ending his floor speeches with "Beam me up, Mr. Speaker" is running as an independent back in his old stomping grounds.

Traficant was only the second member to be removed from Congress since the Civil War, by a vote of 420-1.

That being said, some of his floor statements were -- as Chris Farley used to say -- awesome.

It was just over 14 years ago that Traficant delivered a speech for the ages. No, it probably doesn't rank up there with President Kennedy's bold challenge to reach the moon or President Reagan's "tear down this wall" address, but it was one worth noting.

Here is one example of Traficant’s style.
Singling out the Department of Agriculture's Environmental Quality Incentives Program for questionable spending, Traficant said: “After years of studies and reports, and after hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars, the Department of Agriculture has come to several conclusions.
No 1: Big farm animals produce more manure than small farm animals.
And No. 2: Manure stinks. Beam me up, Mr. Speaker!
200 million dollars to determine that manure stinks. I think these environmentalists over at the Department of Agriculture have been smelling too many methane fumes...”

If you would like to see him on the air here are some links to see his speaking style:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4g6a9re563Y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKrlTfMMncM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlX1k6oYhso

Remember to sign up for the ASIS International Akron-Canton Chapter and SACS Consulting sponsored event on Thursday, October 28, 2010 from 7:30 to 9:30 am at Ohio Prestwick Country Club in Uniontown, Ohio. It is $20 per person, payable at the door, and all are welcome. A reservation is required and can be made by calling Alma Gasper from SACS Consulting at 330.255.1101 x306 or email at alma@sacsconsulting.com.

2010-09-24T21:41:00.001-04:00

Move for Good

2010-08-28T20:56:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: Many people see exercise as a necessary evil. As a result, they may

easily become bored with their routine and find it difficult to stick with it, particularly

when the scale doesn't reflect their efforts. Failing to consider the other benefits of

exercise—lowered stress, brighter mood, improved sleep, and greater energy, to

name a few—makes it more challenging to start or continue moving more.

SOLUTION: In this week's meeting, you will learn the many desirable benefits of

exercise beyond weight loss, which may provide additional motivation to get

moving and stay active. You will learn that activity can, among other perks,

engage the mind and spirit and even enrich the community—whether they plant a

garden for a neighborhood in need or walk to raise funds for a great cause.

"Inspiration cannot be willed, though it can be wooed." —Anthony Storr

2010-08-05T17:27:00.000-04:00

Meeting room layouts designed to engage attendees
By Paula J. Rigling, CAE, CMP

One of the mistakes meeting planners frequently make is not paying enough attention to the layout and design of their meeting rooms. Too often planners are more concerned with accommodating the most people possible in a space instead of designing an environment that is conducive to meeting the goals and objectives of the event. For your next meeting, why not commit to creating an environment that promotes interaction, engages attendees and provides a comfortable, safe space to meet?

Start with the meeting's purpose, goals and objectives:

• Are you planning a session where attendees will be simply listening to a keynote or watching a presentation on screen? If so, then straight-row theater seating should be fine.
• Is your goal to increase interaction among attendees? Then you'll need to create a layout that promotes interaction, and allows them to see each other and share information. In a large group, this might mean curved row seating, or placing the facilitator or speaker in the center and setting the room in the round. Any time you allow people to see the faces of the other attendees, you increase their opportunity to interact and engage with others.
• Do your attendees need to have table space to work in small groups? Consider a T set for the room, with two or three people at the head and two or three people on each side of the center row of each T. I find this preferable to using rounds or crescent rounds for a group because it brings the participants closer together and controls the noise level, as they aren't talking across a large open table.
• Are you planning a formal banquet? Consider using a mixture of different-sized rounds for six, eight or 10, combined with some rectangle or square seating. This creates a more visually pleasing look for the room. It also creates energy and anticipation as attendees react to the unexpected set-up. While you're at it, change up the linens and napkin colors and specify a different napkin fold for each type of table. A search for napkin folds will return several websites with illustrated designs to help spark your creativity. I always ask the facility what color linens they have available and make sure to vary colors at the events. If need be, I allocate funds for linen rentals. Using colored linens is an extremely easy way to add excitement to an event for a small amount of money.
Create a comfortable, safe space for your attendees to spend time in:
• Avoid creating a "bowling alley" setting. Too often rooms are set with the stage or speaker at the head of the room on the short wall. When you have more than 100 attendees, set the front of the room on the long wall to decrease the distance between the last row of the audience and the speaker. This will make it easier and more comfortable for your attendees to see the stage and screen.
• Design seating that keeps people from clustering in the back and clears the emergency exits. How many times have you been asked to add chairs to a room because people are standing in back, when there are actually plenty of open seats in the middle of the room? Too often those standing are clustered around doors, thereby creating an unsafe situation. To avoid this, I use some principles of audience-centered seating as outlined in Dr. Paul Radde's "SEATING MATTERS State of the Art Seating Arrangements" book. First, I have the facility set the last row of seating on the back wall, leaving a wide aisle between it and the second-to-last row. This allows people to walk in front of the last row to get to the side aisles, but doesn't allow them to stand at the back, in front of those seated. Speaking of side aisles, make sure the facility leaves several feet at the end of each row to allow people to move up the sides and into empty seats. This is important, in case of emergency, and also helps those who might need to leave during the session. Another principle of Dr. Radde's is to create cut-in access aisles by removing a center chair from each row. This allows people in the back to move up through several rows into those empty middle seats. To learn more about audience-centered seating, you can obtain a copy of Dr. Radde's book at www.thrival.com.
• Create a comfortable, safe environment. I prefer that the facility not lock the seats together in a row, as it limits the ability of the attendees to rearrange seating to be more comfortable and prevents them from forming small groups, if needed. For one of my clients, we add a couple of rows of comfortable couches and easy chairs provided by the convention decorator to the front of the general session room. This has helped ensure people don't leave the front row empty and provides an option to those who desire something more comfortable than a meeting chair.
By creating an environment designed with your attendees' objectives, goals, comfort and safety in mind, you'll ensure your meetings are enjoyable. The next time you get ready to provide meeting specifications to a facility, take some time to take all these things into consideration. Then, you're bound to have a successful meeting!

::
Paula Rigling, CAE, CMP, is the owner of Meeting Planning Professionals, a full-service meeting planning firm in Austin, Texas, that offers a full array of event management services to a variety of clients, ranging from state, national and international associations, to technology companies and medical communications firms. Paula has over 25 years experience in the areas of hotel sales, catering, convention services and association meeting planning, and frequently writes, teaches and speaks on the subject of meeting planning. E-mail her, follow her on Twitter or on Facebook, or read her blog.

Stop the Eat-a-thon

2010-07-30T17:48:00.001-04:00

Challenge: We all occasionally snack and overeat -- but when we engage in episodes of uncontrolled eating and sneak eating—whether it's chowing down an entire pizza or waiting till everyone's asleep before polishing off the ice cream—the extra POINTS® values and feelings of lost control can sabotage weight loss efforts in the short term and lead to abandoning goals in the long term.

Solution: In next week's meeting, we will discuss the dangers of uncontrolled eating episodes and sneak eating, explore the potential triggers, and begin developing a plan to shorten, stop, and ultimately prevent the unwanted behaviors. Having a plan to counteract the behaviors will empower you to take control of your eating and improve weight-loss success.

How can you use the Clicker and your 3 Month Journal as tools for building awareness of potential triggers, your emotions, and your body's hunger and satiety cues? The Clicker is $5 and the 3 Month Journal is $6.

Source: Weight Watchers

Are You Snack Savvy?

2010-07-24T13:20:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: Managing hunger can be tough, but it's an important skill -- not just for weight loss, but also for long term maintenance. Snacking can be an effective strategy for staying ahead of hunger. The problem is that snacks can quickly be use up the daily POINTS target and weekly POINTS allowance. Even smart snackers become bored with their usual choices and therefore, are more vulnerable to temptation.

SOLUTION: In next week's meeting, we will discuss strategies for savvy snacks that will help you stay satisfied between meals while also staying within the daily POINTS targets. Come and share ideas for snacks that can be:

Taken on the go;
Filling Foods and/or
Replaced with your Old Standbys (Twinkles anyone?)

Which snacks travel well? Weight Watchers Baked Snacks, including Ranch Multi-grain Crisps, make good, easy-to-pack, on-the-go options. $4.50 per box at all meeting locations.

GOING...GOING...Almost GONE! Between now and August 7th, join us for $1! Missed meeting fees are also only $1 during this time!

See you at the meeting,

De-de

SOURCE: Weight Watchers

Push Past Plateus

2010-07-09T19:28:00.000-04:00

Challenge: Plateaus happen and can be incredibly frustrating. The challenge is to

manage the thoughts of frustration and stay on track.

Solution: In next week's meeting, you will come to understand that stalls in weight

loss are a natural part of the process and that there are powerful mental strategies

that can make it easier to persevere during those times.

How can using a 3 Month Journal help you acknowledge your weight related

accomplishments? Only $6 in the meeting rooms.

"Watch your thoughts for they become your words;

Watch your words for they become your actions."

—Frank Outlaw

See you at the meeting,

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Cuyahoga Falls and Twinsburg since 2002

Fw: Don't forget to Pack your Plan

2010-06-29T14:45:00.001-04:00

Challenge Changes in routine can wreak havoc on your weight-loss

progress. Scheduled interruptions such as vacations may feel like an excuse to go

off plan. Unscheduled disruptions can be distractions from your goals and be

considered an excuse for lapsing. You may practice all-or-nothing thinking

and be especially sensitive to schedule disruptions.

Solution In this week's meeting, you will learn that schedule disruptions don't

have to lead to weight gain. We'll explore ways to stay on track while on vacation,

such as by believing that staying on plan is a desirable goal that YOU are capable of

and worthy of achieving. We'll discuss the value of using Mental Rehearsing to

practice how you will behave while on vacation. We'll brainstorm ways to

plan for those unplanned disruptions. Consistently attending meetings and

avoiding all-or-nothing thinking will help with all of those efforts.

Mini Bars are delicious, portioned, easy-to-carry snacks with a POINTS
value of just 1. How can you use them to help you be successful while
you're on vacation?

"We might think we 'can't help' gaining weight because
we're cravers. We crave food,
but if we give ourselves a chance we'll find that we
crave other things too; food
is just the easiest target. I found that I also craved
being able to give. I craved
being active, doing something I loved. I craved
beautiful clothes I looked
good in. … And not only that, I wanted to be a blonde."
—Jean Nidetch, founder of Weight Watchers

See you at the meeting,

De-de

The art of estimating

2010-06-21T15:18:00.001-04:00

Challenge Accurately estimating the POINTS® values of foods is one of the trickiest things about navigating away-from-home eating. That's because you can't measure the foods you're eating and don't know which ingredients were used in their preparation. This uncertainty can lead one to give up on tracking and feel incapable of success.

Solution In this week's meeting, you will learn several ways to master the art of estimating. Being able to accurately assess portion sizes and POINTS values will give you the skills you need to feel confident in your ability to lose weight—and maintain it. Honing these skills in real-life situations is essential for mastery of the skill.

The Easy Measure Serving Set provides accuracy at home. Practicing at home can help you estimate portion sizes correctly when away

from home.$20 at meeting rooms.

"The skill to do comes of doing." —Ralph Waldo Emerson

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Cuyahoga Falls, and Twinsburg since 2002

Beyond the Basics: Making Tracking Work for You

2010-06-12T20:20:00.001-04:00

THE CHALLENGE: Self-monitoring can make all the difference when it comes to weightloss

success. While the basics of self-monitoring (or tracking, as we call it) are

simple—record what you eat, the portion, and the POINTS® values—doing it right

and doing it consistently are not always so simple. You may have questions

about how to count certain foods and about the best ways to track. Misconceptions

about tracking may add to the confusion.

THE SOLUTION: In this week's meeting, you will explore opportunities to track more

accurately: You'll get answers to frequently asked questions about counting foods

and tracking, and hear from fellow members about the tracking strategies they've

developed over time.

When has the Complete Food Companion® been invaluable in helping you track POINTS values? How does that resource help you when you're trying to figure out the POINTS values of combination foods? Only $10 in the meeting rooms.

"If you bite it, write it.

If you snack it, track it.

If you nibble it, scribble it.

If you drink it, ink it.

Grab your pencil before your utensil!"

—Authors unknown

When Hunger Comes Calling

2010-06-06T17:06:00.000-04:00

Challenge: There are any number of reasons why the hunger monster might
attack:

* Too busy to stop and eat
* Skip breakfast, then feel starved at lunchtime
* Avoid snacks
* Don’t eat enough at regular meals

When you are hungry it makes it tough to choose food wisely and often leads to overeating.

Solution: In this week's meeting, you will identify the times of day when hunger strikes, enabling you to implement strategies that will keep you in control and on track. We will explore how eating Filling Foods can help make you feel
more satisfied, so you can stay ahead of hunger and boost weight-loss progress.

Monitor your hunger each day on the charts in your 3 Month Journal to get a better idea of your hungriest times. Only $6 in Meeting Rooms.

Mini Bar, Oatmeal, and Smoothie Sale
From June 6 to June 26, all Weight Watchers Mini Bars, Oatmeal, and Smoothies will be on sale for $5 per box.

Magazine Sale
The magazine is $.50 off from June 6 to June 26.

New Fitness Kits
Two brand-new fitness kits, Work Your Belly, Butt & Thighs and Punch!, are in meeting rooms and sell for $30 and $25 respectively.

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” —Aristotle

Hudson Clocktower Rotary Installation Dinner Invitation

2010-06-01T12:56:00.000-04:00

You and a Guest are Cordially Invited to the

Hudson Clocktower Rotary

Installation Dinner

Wednesday, June 9, 2010
The Country Club of Hudson, 2155 Middleton Road
6 PM Reception, 6:30 PM Dinner, 7:30 PM Recognition and Installation

Cash Bar * Rustic Chicken * House Salad * Rolls & Butter
Bow Tie Pasta * Green Beans Almandine

* Strawberry Whip Cream Cake
* Coffee, Tea, & Iced Tea

$30 Per Person

Please Make Your Reservation by Friday, June 4, 2010 to
dede@mulliganmanagementgroup.com

Building a Foundation of Support

2010-05-08T12:00:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: Sometimes the very people with whom you are closest to are the least supportive of your weight-loss efforts. What's more, you may find that your relationship with others is built around food and drinking. When you try to change that dynamic you may find you are met with resistance.

SOLUTION: In next week's meeting, you will learn how helpful a supportive network can be for weight loss and explore ways to build such network. You may need to manage challenging relationships by asking for help or seeking new, more supportive acquaintances. Either way, you will learn the importance of taking responsibility for expressing your needs to those around you.

"I get by with a little help from my friends. Gonna try with a little help from my friends." -- John Lennon and Paul McCartney

JOIN us for FREE between now and May 29, 2010! No registration fees! No missed meeting fees!

From now until May 29, all Weight Watchers Meal Sides, Fruities, and Melts will be on sale "Buy 2, get 1 free".

All Pedometers are $5 off when you use the Walk-It Challenge Training Guide Coupon.

See you at the meeting,
De-de

An Insider's Guide to Dining Out

2010-05-03T07:47:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: When preparing meals at home, most people feel in control. This is not so when dining out. Healthy menu options are often hidden; asking for special preparations may be embarrassing (like Sally from the film "When Harry met Sally"), and portions can be hard to manage.

SOLUTION: In this week's meeting, you will practice the Weight Watchers strategies for taking control when dining out in order to keep your weight loss on track.

RESTAURANT SMARTS: Whenever you are eating out, turn to the Dining Out Companion. It has been fully updated and give the best POINTS value choices at 124 chains, including ethnic and regional favorites. Only $10!

Join Weight Watchers for FREE between now and May 29, 2010!

"Good plans shape good decisions." That's why good planning helps to make elusive dreams come true." -- Lester R. Bittel

See you at the meeting,
De-de

www.mulliganmanagementgroup.com
www.mulliganmanagementgroup.blogspot.com

Monitoring Yourself : A Journey of Self-Discovery

2010-04-09T20:07:00.000-04:00

CHALLENGE: Although mastering the habit of self-monitoring can help you lose weight and keep it off, you may find it difficult to self-monitor consistently. You may start off the week vigilantly tracking food and activity only to abandon your efforts by week's end. Monitoring more than just food and activity -- things like habit and behavior changes for instance -- can seem overwhelming if you already find it hard to keep up with tracking.

SOLUTION: In next week's meeting, you will learn about the power of tracking. We will discuss strategies for achieving more consistency with monitoring and explore ways to make more extensive monitoring easier so it won't seem like a chore. Weight Watchers wants to make it part of your lifestyle and their are many techniques that can make you successful.

Consider purchasing the POINTS Clicker. It quickly tracks daily POINTS values. It is compact and designed for on-the-go use with the key-chain attachment. Only $5! To learn more about the POINTS Clicker, click onto the link below:

http://aka.leader.weightwatchers.com/images/1033/dynamic/GCMSImages/BUG_31470_Spring2009_POINTS_Clicker_040209.pdf

"Self-knowledge is the beginning of self-improvement." -- Spanish Proverb

Step Up to the Walk-It Challenge

2010-04-04T23:56:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: Regular physical activity offers many physical, mental, and emotional benefits including better overall health, improved mood, and self satisfaction. Although most people are familiar with these benefits, it doesn't make it easier to get started exercising or stick with it. Busy schedules, lack of jnterest, and waning motivation are the key factors that keep people back. Often the reasons for not exercising are "It's too hot", "It's too cold", "I don't have time" or "I don't like to exercise."

SOLUTION: In this week's meeting, we will explore how goal setting can be an effective for motivation to begin exercising regularly and for helping to stay focused on activity efforts. We will introduce the new Walk-It Challenge which can help you set activity goals and follow through with support.

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Cuyahoga Falls, Aurora, and Hudson since 2002

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." -- Lao-Tsu

Buddy Up!

2010-03-28T17:47:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: Losing weight takes time and motivation. Sometimes family members and friends are not supportive of your weight-loss efforts and their lack of support can become an obstacle to success.

SOLUTION: In this week's meeting, you will learn how helpful weight-loss buddies can be at providing the support and motivation they need to keep going. You will learn how to find buddies with similar goals who can help you stay strong in your commitment to make positive changes.

Use the Weight Watchers Pedometer to track your activity and challenge your buddy to keep up with you. Only $24!

Registration Fees of $20 is in effect until April 3rd. Wave the registration fee by choosing the Monthly Pass or 17-week pass! Weekly fees are going up to $13 per member if you pay weekly starting April 4th.

Give yourself the gift of giving with the MONTHLY PASS!

Save $2.78 per meeting PLUS get e-tools for FREE which is an additional savings of $3.23 per week!
Unlimited Meetings and NO missed meeting fees!
No registration fee

"Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You too? I thought I was the only one.'" - C.S. Lewis

See you at the meeting!

De-de

Going from Oops to Wow!

2010-03-21T12:32:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: When trying to change behavior, it is important to recognize past mistakes in order to avoid repeating them. Those same mistakes may get the better of your weight loss efforts this time, next time, and the time after that.

SOLUTION: In this week's meeting, you will learn that in order to be successful, you must learn from the past. Look back and acknowledge both the successes and failures. Adjust habits and behaviors accordingly.

Record what you're eating, daily activity, and hunger levels in the 3 month journal. Updated with new tips and recipes, the journal is spiral bound and conveniently sized to go with you anywhere - so you can track anytime. Only $6!

Registration Fees of $20 is in effect until April 3rd. Wave the registration fee by choosing the Monthly Pass or 17-week pass!

SALE news! LAST WEEK OF SALE! From now through March 28, all Smoothies, Oatmeal, and 1 POINT Mini Bars will be on sale for $5 per box!

Give yourself the gift of giving with the MONTHLY PASS!

Save $2.78 per meeting PLUS get e-tools for FREE which is an additional savings of $3.23 per week!
Unlimited Meetings and NO missed meeting fees!
No registration fee

"What you did is not important. What you learned from it is."

See you at the meeting!

De-de

Become a Portion Pro

2010-03-14T13:24:00.001-04:00

CHALLENGE: Why can't I lose weight? Why isn't the weight coming off faster? These are the questions that frustrate many. The answer: Underestimation of food intake. The size of the average underestimation is 500 to 1,000 calories per day. For some people, managing portion sizes can be challenging. In today's hurried world, it is understandable that a person might be unaware of something he or she ate or be unsure of how to monitor portions away from home. When there is a discrepancy between what a person ate and what they think they ate, they may "resolve" that discrepancy by unconsciously ignoring some of their food intake.

SOLUTION: In this week's meeting, we will learn how practicing portion control consistently helps a person become more mindful of what they are eating and less likely to underestimate their food intake. We will explore strategies to make it easier to monitor portions at or away from home.

Now you can discreetly measure and serve food right at the table and get a perfect portion every time. The Easy Measure Serving Set is a sturdy, dishwasher-safe set which includes 1, 1/2, and 1/4 serving spoons. Only $20!

Registration Fees of $20 is in effect until April 3rd. Wave the registration fee by choosing the Monthly Pass or 17-week pass!

SALE news! From now through March 28, all Smoothies, Oatmeal, and 1 POINT Mini Bars will be on sale for $5 per box!

Give yourself the gift of giving with the MONTHLY PASS!

Save $2.78 per meeting PLUS get e-tools for FREE which is an additional savings of $3.23 per week!
Unlimited Meetings and NO missed meeting fees!
No registration fee

"I'm a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it." -- President Thomas Jefferson

See you at the meeting!

De-de

Celebrating Progress

2010-03-06T11:06:00.001-05:00

CHALLENGE: When trying to lose weight and learn new skills, progress is never a straight road. Along the way, many experience plateaus, declines in motivation, and unexpected weight gains. Yet, successes are often overlooked, instead focusing on the challenges to overcome, the skills not mastered, the things left undone, or not even attempted.

SOLUTION: In next week's meeting, the focus will be on "success breeds success". Celebrating accomplishments associated with the Momentum 2010 Challenge can be inspirational and help strive for more success and meet the challenges not yet conquered. It can also prove valuable feedback: Identify and continue doing what has worked, tweak what isn't working, and tackle new skills that can boost weight-loss progress.

Considering giving yourself a reward after meeting a certain milestone? Why not the Weight Watchers Electronic Food Scale? It can help you crunch numbers for a host of dishes. It is the perfect partner in the kitchen by using the POINTS value database to crunch the numbers for over 500 foods, as well as, giving POINTS values per serving for your own recipes. Only $40!

Last week for FREE registration! Ends on Sunday, March 14th. So come in NOW and get registered or return before spring break and summer is here! No missed meeting fees through Saturday either!

SALE news! From March 8 through 28, all Smoothies, Oatmeal, and 1 POINT Mini Bars will be on sale for $5 per box!

Give yourself the gift of giving with the MONTHLY PASS!

Save $2.78 per meeting PLUS get e-tools for FREE which is an additional savings of $3.23 per week!
Unlimited Meetings and NO missed meeting fees!
No registration fee

"To fly we have to have resistance." -- Maya Lin

See you at the meeting!

Spice it Up!

2010-03-01T17:27:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: Sticking with exactly what you have been doing can help you feel safe. The same brown-bag lunch, chicken dinner, and daily walk equals the same results. The problem is --- even if you have been successful with that approach -- doing the same ol' same ol' can become boring. When you feel bored , you may find yourself susceptible to donuts or the call to that fast-food place on the way home. Giving into those temptations can slow or stop your weight loss progress.

THE SOLUTION: Sharing ideas for mixing things up -- with both food and activity -- can renew your excitement and enthusiasm. The payoff for using those ideas? That comes when you step on the scale !

Use Weight Watchers Meal Sides to spice up a meal! Only $3 per bag!

Join for FREE between now and March 13, 2010! Only a few days left!

The Wieght-Loss Friendly Kitchen

2010-02-20T19:27:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: Home is where the heart is. It's also where the food is. Cupboards and pantries are full of hard-to-control foods that can be big roadblocks in your path to weight-loss success.

THE SOLUTION: In this meeting, you will discover ways to set up your home to smooth the road to success. You will learn to keep the fridge and cupboard well stocked with Filling Foods and to replace trigger foods with healthier choices that make it easier to stay on track.

Keep Baked Snacks and Snack Bars on hand as satisfying substitutes for challenging foods with high POINTS values. Baked Snacks are $4.50 per box, 2 POINT Bars are $5 per box and 1 POINT Bars are $7.50 per box.

Join for FREE between now and March 13, 2010!

Take Charge When Dining Out

2010-02-12T15:52:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: Do you think of dining out as a time when you must go off plan in order to enjoy yourself? Sometimes it looks like eating out and eating healthy are mutually exclusive.

THE SOLUTION: You can enjoy eating out without apprehension or guilt by using the Weight Watchers tools and strategies learned in this week's meeting. Using Mental Rehearsing, SetPOINTS values, and Flexible Restraint can make it easier for you to make wise meal choices and stay in control. Dining out is an inevitable part of your life, so learning to eat out while staying on plan is critical to your success.

Using the Dining Out Companion will give you a thorough listing of POINTS values with over 133 restaurants and many, many selections listed. Only $10.

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal
Members who attend meetings and use e-tools, lose over 50% more weight than members who only attend meetings.

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
Now through March 13, 2010

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"When placed in command -- take charge." US General Norman Schwarzkopf

Fw: Weight Watchers Open House EVERY Saturday in February from 1 to 4 PM!

2010-02-11T17:56:00.001-05:00

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Streetsboro, Cuyahoga Falls, and Hudson since 2002

"I don't think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday." -- Abraham Lincoln

Let the world be your teacher.

----- Forwarded Message ----
From: D Mulligan <dedelost31@yahoo.com>
To: my blogger <dede36.M_M_G_@blogger.com>
Sent: Thu, February 11, 2010 5:47:08 PM
Subject: Weight Watchers Open House EVERY Saturday in February from 1 to 4 PM!

Good Evening Everyone,

Stop by and see me this Saturday and next at our OPEN HOUSE from 1 to 4 PM. Bring a family member or friend. Buy products! Reactivate your membership! Enter our raffle! Get cool door prizes!

We are located at 692 Howe Avenue in Cuyahoga Falls.

Hope to see you this Saturday or next!

De-de

Put Yourself First

2010-02-05T11:19:00.001-05:00

The Challenge: Do you have a hard time taking care of yourself or prioritizing your own weight-loss efforts? You may be so used to taking care of everyone else in your life that asking "What do I need?" may seem like a very foreign concept.

The Solution: In this week's meeting, we will discuss the importance of learning to ask for what you need -- which is critical to weight loss success. We will go over strategies, including acknowledging that your needs are important and taking the time to identify the type of help that will best aid your weight loss efforts.

How would you think and behave differently this year if you were to be your own Valentine? Your own best friend? Fruities and Cappuccino Melts are a great way to get a Valentine's sweet fix for only 1 POINT value per package and they have no sugar. Only $2.50!

Give yourself the gift of the MONTHLY PASS!

$39.95 per Month
Unlimited Meetings
Free e-Tools ($12.95 per month value) making your total investment in the meetings $27 per month
Automatic Renewal

Join for FREE until March 13, 2010!
No Registration, No Missed Meeting Fees

Never been to Weight Watchers?

Join us ANY Saturday in February from 1 to 4 PM to learn more!

De-de Mulligan would like to connect with you on Yahoo!

2010-01-30T14:43:00.001-05:00


	De-de Mulligan (De-de)	De-de Mulligan (De-de) would like to connect with you on Yahoo! so you can easily share each others' Updates

Once you accept, you get to share Updates on Yahoo! such as:
•	Photos, reviews, videos, status messages, and much more
•	Contact information changes
•	Automatic birthday reminders

Accept invitation.

What are Updates on Yahoo!?
This invitation will expire after 180 days.
Want to control which emails you receive about your connections and your profile on Yahoo!?
Go to: http://profiles.yahoo.com/settings/notifications

Motivation Makeover

2010-01-29T12:23:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: Your thoughts are key to your eventual success with weight loss.

THE SOLUTION: Weight Watchers Tools for Living are behavior boosters that can help you tap into the inner strength you need to reach and maintain your weight loss goal. They are especially useful when motivation wanes, which can happen about now.

Use a great Anchoring tool. The 3 month journal is about more than tracking food intake. It also includes powerful sayings that can become anchors to help you stay connected to your inner resources. Only $6.

No time for tracking? Tracking POINTS values are easy and fun on the POINTS Calculator, with a new slick design. Set your daily POINTS target in the morning and keep track throughout the day. Slip it into your purse or pocket to take anywhere. Only $12.

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal
Members who attend meetings and use e-tools, lose over 50% more weight than members who only attend meetings.

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
Now through March 13, 2010

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

Now click your heels three times and repeat after me "There's no place like GOAL!"

Emotional Hunger vs. Physical Hunger

2010-01-22T12:46:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: When hunger strikes it can be difficult to know if it's the mind or the body that needs to be fed.

THE SOLUTION: When you learn to identify the root cause of your hunger, you are able to effectively strategize ways to feed that need -- whether it is physical or emotional -- while staying on plan and in control.

Calling all nut lovers! Our new Roasted Almond Sensation Snack Bar is packed with roasted almonds and peanuts and lightly touched with honey. This crunchy and chewy bar has 9 grams of fiber, 5 grams of protein, 0 gram of trans fat, and 2 POINTS value! Carry one with you wherever you go. It is only $5 per box.

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal
Members who attend meetings and use e-tools, lose over 50% more weight than members who only attend meetings.

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
Now through March 13, 2010

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"A moment's insight is sometimes worth a life's experience." -- Oliver Wendell Holmes

Moving Matters

2010-01-15T20:20:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: We all know physical activity is good for us, but we don't always want to do it. For many of us, exercise is a low priority -- something we do sporadically -- if at all. Some feel that exercise has to be time consuming difficult demanding or a drag .

THE SOLUTION: Make exercise a good fit by finding activities you enjoy and make moving more of a priority.

If you do the walking plan, you can use the Weight Watchers pedometer. It measures steps and distance walked and calculates activity POINTS values. Wearing a pedometer shows your achievements. It is only $24.

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal
Members who attend meetings and use e-tools, lose over 50% more weight than members who only attend meetings.

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
Now through March 13, 2010

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"Commit to be fit."

Staying Satisfied: The Secret of Success

2010-01-08T16:53:00.000-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: For members to be successful at weight loss, it is essential that they stay satisfied with their food choices. When members aren't satisfied, they are more vulnerable to eating temptations that can take them off-track. That's when then they find their hands in the receptionist's candy dish at work or idly perusing their cupboards at home -- searching for something -- anything -- that will give them eating satisfaction.

THE SOLUTION: The Weight Watchers Momentum plan points members toward food choices that will help them feel satisfied. Those choices -- called Filling Foods -- are low in both energy density and POINTS but high in nutrition and satiety.

Make Filling Foods your Main Ingredient by checking out the cookbooks in the meeting room, like the new Healthy Eating Basics with Filling Foods in almost all 175 recipes, plus tips for adding Filling Foods to meals to help you feel satisfied.. It is only $15

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal
Members who attend meetings and use e-tools, lose over 50% more weight than members who only attend meetings.

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
Now through March 13, 2010

Come into a meeting this week and enjoy all our baked snacks and 2 POINT Bars for a reduce fee of $3.50 per box!

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"Personal satisfaction is the most important ingredient of success." -- Denis Waitley

Staying on Track with Tracking

2010-01-01T16:11:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

THE CHALLENGE: Studies show that overweight people tend to underestimate how much they eat and drink by up to 1,000 calories per day! That can cause people to gain weight or if they are trying to lose weight, hinder their success.

THE SOLUTION: Experts have found that tracking food intake, at least 75 percent of the time, helps increase the likelihood that people will lose weight and keep it off. Tracking can help members become more realistic about portion sizes and teach them more about their relationship with food. Tracking is the foundation of the Weight Watchers program and the first skill we will look at during the Momentum 2010 Challenge.

Consider giving yourself a gift that will keep on giving all year long!
Deluxe and Basic Member Kits which include the Complete Food Companion, Dining Out Companion, 3 Month Journal, and many more goodies will help you with tracking and portion sizes. The Basic Kit is $25, but for only $40 you will get a great Deluxe Kit that can store all your weekly materials as well.

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal
Members who attend meetings and use e-tools, lose over 50% more weight than members who only attend meetings.

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
Now through March 13, 2010

Come into a meeting this week and sample our new Roasted Sensation Snack Bar! Only $5 per box!

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"Awareness is empowering." -- Rita Wilson

Resolutions that Work

2009-12-28T15:23:00.000-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: Goals must be realistic and achievable. Research shows that unrealistic goals can undermine the behavior changes needed for lasting weight loss.

THE SOLUTION: With the New Year looming, it's especially important to steer away from unrealistic goals and design powerful goals -- both long- and short-term -- that will yield results in 2010.

Just in time to start the New Year on track, the 3 Month Journal has been updated with new tips and recipes. Spiral-bound and a convenient size, take it with you so you can track anytime. Only $6!

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
Now through March 6, 2010

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"A goal is created three times, first as a mental picture. Second, when written down to add clarity and dimension. Third, when you take action toward its achievement." -- Gary Ryan Blair

Celebrate Every Success

2009-12-18T10:52:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: Weight loss, as you know, does not proceed like clockwork. Even the most enthusiastic person occasionally loses their motivation, hits plateaus, and gains a few pounds. These events can cause some to become so frustrated and discouraged that they stop working toward their goals.

THE SOLUTION: The meeting is an excellent opportunity to help you understand that noting successes and rewarding it can create a boost in motivation and confidence to continue. It's incredibly important to help you see success beyond the numbers at the scale. Recognizing and celebrating little bravos -- choosing only one cookie from the plate of cookies, tracking every bite for a whole day, or realizing a watchband feels looser -- can keep you inspired, on the right track, and feeling great.

Purchase a new tool for success, one of our Weight Watchers Cookbooks.

    Comfort Classics Cookbook               $10
    Healthy Cooking Basics Cookbook    $15
    Hit the Spot Cookbook                    $10
    Momentum Cookbook                        $15
    Now and Later Cookbook                  $10
    Shot in the Arm                                  $5

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free Registration, Save $20
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
December 27 through March 6, 2010

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"Celebrate what you want to see more of." -- Thomas J. Peters

Putting the "P" in Perseverance

2009-12-11T14:15:00.001-05:00

THE CHALLENGE: The holiday season's tempting treats and party foods can lead you to overeat, causing a lapse. You may get lax with your exercise efforts because of your busy schedules. Lapses are normal, but after experiencing one, you may revert to your old eating and activity habits, or relapse. If you relapse repeatedly, you will feel like you'll never get back on track and may quit -- a total collapse.

THE SOLUTION: It's vital that you persevere and not give up. To do so, it's important that you figure out how to prevent lapses or recover from them. The holidays offer an opportunity for you to learn from your lapses and build even stronger weight-loss skills.

"There's no such thing as failure, only feedback."

When time is an issue, consider using a POINTS Clicker. It can be a major time-saver and make tracking a realistic goal. It is only $5 and a perfect stocking stuffer!

Give yourself the gift of losing!
Monthly Pass is $9.22 per week, save 23% on Weekly Fee
Free Registration, Save $20
Free e-tools, savings of $155 per year
Automatic Monthly Renewal

Free Registration and No Missed Meeting Fees
December 27 through March 6, 2010

See you at the Meeting,
De-de

"Feedback is the breakfast of champions." -- Ken Blanchard

Outsmart Holiday Stress

2009-12-04T11:02:00.001-05:00

Hello Members,

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you have:

Long to-do lists
Gift buying
Cards to sent
Worrying about money
Attending social events
Cooking for family gatherings
Decorating and
Dealing with challenging relatives

It is no surprise that being stressed-out might tempt you to
grab that candy at work or have an extra cup of eggnog.

You can choose a different path this year -- one that is not
paved with cookie crumbs. In next week's meeting, you will
learn how to manage holiday stress without overeating.

We are going to use the Reframing tool and other strategies
to help you feel confident in your ability to handle holiday challenges.

Invest in the 2010 Member Kit! It is an indispensable tool for you!
The kit includes tools that help you choose the right foods and
monitor your progress for continued for success. In the 3 Month
Journal, you can track your eating and journal feelings like stress.

Give yourself the gift of losing! Invest in the Monthly Pass!

$9.22 per week, save 23% on weekly fee
Free registration, save $20
Free eTools, including Weight Watchers Mobile, save $155 per year
Automatic monthly renewal

Join Weight Watchers for Free between 12/27/09 and 3/6/10
No missed meeting fees during that time
Get a jump start on 2010!

See you at the meeting,
De-de

Weekly Motivational Message and To-do for You!

2009-11-27T19:18:00.001-05:00

Hello Members,

This week we will focus on the advantages of varying your food intake.

We want YOU to share YOUR ideas and recipes that help prevent food boredom.

We all sometimes fall into eating ruts. You may think it's easier to go with old
reliable than to try something new.

Sticking to the same old things, though, can lead to food boredom, making you
more vulnerable to temptation and unplanned snacking that can hinder your weight
loss. Lack of variety also may cause you to miss out on certain vitamins,
minerals and nutrients.

Learn this week how to changing up food choices by bringing a food item and/or recipe
and learn how variety can help promote interest, satisfaction with the food plan
and potentially long-term weight-loss success.

See you at the meeting,

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Cuyahoga Falls, and Hudson since 2002

"I don't think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday." -- Abraham Lincoln

Let the world be your teacher.

Start Thinking About Your New Year’s Resolution Now…Bring Weight Watchers to You!

2009-11-23T17:03:00.001-05:00

Starting a Weight Watchers meeting at your location is easy as 1-2-3

Discuss holding a meeting at your office and secure a meeting room and storage space on site.
Circulate an interest form throughout the office and obtain the names of at least 20 employees interested in coming to a FREE onsite Weight Watchers Open House meeting.
Call De-de Mulligan at 330.472.7673 to get started.

Bring Weight Watchers to your office or organization for valuable weight-loss help right at your location! Call De-de at 330.472.7673 for more information on how to set up an At Your Location meeting.

In addition, our 17-week meeting series is now better than ever! Now, when you enroll in a 17-week meeting, you will receive 19 weeks of Weight Watchers eTools for FREE.

Having meetings right where you work is a great help. Weight Watchers comes to your workplace to provide experienced guidance at weekly meetings that fit perfectly into the busy workday.

I am interested in learning more about Weight Watchers. I understand that by signing up for the free information session does not obligate me to join Weight Watchers. If I join Weight Watchers, I am indicating below my 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd choice for meeting days and times.

Name	Email	1^st Choice Day and Time	2^nd Choice Day and Time	3^rd Choice Day and Time

Weight Watchers Weekly Motivational Message -- Manage Food Centered Relationships

2009-11-21T23:00:00.001-05:00

Come this week to explore strategies for
managing the emotions that holiday events
and loved ones can evoke.

Our relationships with those closest to us
may seem to be centered on food,
especially during the holidays.

In addition, holiday gatherings can be fun
and relaxing but also can evoke strong
emotions.

Those emotions can make us want to eat,
thus hindering our weight-loss progress.
We can, however, learn to manage those feelings
and our food-centered relationships without using food,
and once again we can ask for help from our friends,
relatives and co-workers.

See you at the meeting!

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader

Leading Classes in Hudson
and Cuyahoga Falls

Fw: Weekly Motivational Message: Serving Up Thanksgiving

2009-11-16T07:49:00.001-05:00

Helllo Members,

Please attend this week's meeting to explore strategies for managing holiday foods and other special occasion meals.

The Momentum Plan can help you enjoy those special foods associated with Thanksgiving AND still lose weight! This week's meeting will focus on:

Which foods should we select?
How much food should we eat?
How often should we eat on Thursday and beyond?

The items discussed this week can be used for any special occasion or holiday. Come in this week and learn fresh ideas! Other great ideas are on the Weight Watchers website.

See you at the meeting,

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Cuyahoga Falls, and Hudson since 2002

"I don't think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday." -- Abraham Lincoln

Let the world be your teacher.

Start Over

2009-08-15T17:32:00.001-04:00

Start Over

If you've started out in pursuit of your goal and you've really tried with your heart and soul, but somehow things got out of control – START OVER

When you've tried your best to do what you should and you thought this time that you surely would, but once again, you didn't do well – START OVER

When you've worked so hard to follow a dieter's way and you fought to win a victory each day, but one more time you went astray – START OVER

When the road to success seemed much too long and each temptation was oh so strong and once again you gave in to wrong – START OVER

When you've told your friends what you planned to do, trusted them to help you through, and soon discovered it's up to you – START OVER

When you know you must be physically fit but your hope seems gone and you're stuck in a pit. That's not the time for you to quit – START OVER

When the week seems long and successes few and at weigh in time your feeling blue, remember tomorrow is just for you – START OVER

To start again means a victory's been won and starting over AGAIN means a race well won and starting over AGAIN proves it can be done, so don't just sit there – START OVER!!

Celebrate Success!

2009-08-08T21:13:00.001-04:00

Things you can do to Stay Upbeat in Down Times

Celebrate Success!

It is easy to become engrossed in our news statistics – employment is terrible, the economy is in the tank, and no one is spending money on anything.

These statements are simply not true. I have been in the sales and marketing field for over 27 years and even though this year is a slow year, people are still buying! Every time, I made a sale this year, I smiled! Every time, someone signed a contract with me, I smiled! Every time I received a check from an event I planned, I smiled!

Now is the time to relish in the little victories and be grateful that some companies have money and…are willing to spend it. Assume that the individual you call on tomorrow is that person. Even if they say no today, you may have started a great relationship that will eventually lead to yes.

Smile and celebrate the little wins because if you work hard on the little wins, the big wins will follow.

Rockin' on the River

2009-06-04T19:11:00.001-04:00

facebook
De-de Mulligan 4:11pm Jun 4th	Rockin' on the River To dede36.m_m_g@blogger.com De-de has shared a link to an event with you. To view the event or to reply to the message, follow this link: http://www.facebook.com/p.php?i=711817863&k=SVGY52R645ZM5JEGQG3XRQ
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Check out this site I found on StumbleUpon!

2009-06-04T17:46:00.001-04:00

Home News Photos Videos

Hi,

Checkout this site I found using StumbleUpon!

weightwatchers.com/templates/m...
weightwatchers.com/templates/m...

- De-De Mulligan, CMP, CMM

Reply now! >

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Watch CIC PROMO VIDEO

2009-06-03T18:56:00.001-04:00

dede@mulliganmanagementgroup.com wants to share this video with you:

CIC PROMO VIDEO

Video:
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dede@mulliganmanagementgroup.com has sent you a story from Management.travel

2009-05-27T21:39:00.001-04:00

Anthem, MassMutual Bring PR To Events

by Lauren Darson

May 20, 2009 • New York - After the "AIG effect" put unprecedented scrutiny on corporate meetings and incentives, meeting buyers speaking here this month said their firms have adjusted practices to deal with the changes in public perception amid the challenging economic environment. What was entertaining is now tacky, and companies including Anthem BlueCross BlueShield and MassMutual have attempted to tone events down, if not cancel them altogether, even though they still deliver value.

"We are continuing to have all of our incentive events," said Jeanne Young, vice president of travel services for MassMutual Financial Group, speaking at the Financial and Insurance Meeting Planning Conference. "We spend a lot of money on incentive events, and the primary reason is because the people who we are rewarding are not employees. If we don't incent them to go out and sell more, they will sell for someone else because they are not dedicated [or] exclusive to MassMutual. It behooves us to make sure they still regard us as the No. 1 company that they want to do business for. We're not really doing anything much different than what MassMutual has always done; we are not doing anything different in direct response to this bad press or anything."

But Young acknowledged that her team partners with the public relations and marketing departments before following through with events, preparing those media relations officials with "canned responses in the event there are reporters outside of the hotel."

"In the past," she said, "money was seemingly no object. I had some customers that put some things on the agenda that were really over the top, like gladiators walking through an event." MassMutual never used the gladiators, but when similar ideas arose, Young and others developed the saying "Kill the gladiators" to squash them.

Anthem once held an event with penguins, said Jenell Smith, senior marketing director for Anthem BlueCross BlueShield. Now it is more seriously considering the purpose of meetings and returns on investments.

"Perception is everything," said Smith. Immediately following the AIG backlash, Anthem canceled a large group incentive meeting for top salespeople and brokers to avoid being blasted by the media--even though Anthem is not a beneficiary of the recent bailouts, like AIG and other companies that have been criticized for wasteful spending. "Being in the financial and insurance industries, we are heavily regulated [and] heavily scrutinized. We always have that magnifying glass on us," Smith said. "Deposits were made, site visits had taken place and a decision [by the CEO] was made to pull it."

The money invested in that meeting is being "held in escrow because [the CEO] knew that the storm would be weathered," Smith said. However, the meeting will not be held at a four- or five-star resort, and Anthem added an educational component to the meeting to clear any bad taste it could potentially leave, she continued. Additionally, Anthem attached charitable causes to meetings in order to offset any unfavorable opinions, according to Smith.

Anthem still plans on rewarding its top salespeople and brokers with gifts like Broadway show tickets or dinner certificates. "We still wanted to do something that was under the radar but could still be fulfilling to that recipient," Smith said.

When it does host meetings, though, Anthem no longer prints its company logo on signage around the meeting; instead, the meeting title is merely printed in bold-faced type. Activities like golf and fishing are still on meeting agendas as "a team-building activity," Smith said. But meetings are not being held outside of the continental United States and Anthem is limiting invitations for spouses and other guests, Smith said.

Anthem and MassMutual gain too much value from incentives and meetings to simply do away with them, but the recent hubbub has brought with it a desire for demand management. "We look back at our goals and ask, 'What is the true purpose of this?' " said Smith, referring to planning events with senior management. "That wasn't always the case, I'm sorry to say. Some people just wanted to have a big shindig, and they wanted to get together."

Young said MassMutual prioritizes incentive meetings as a means of offering revenue-generators a perk to sell more and increase company loyalty. "Our company [consists of] very thoughtful and introspective people that understand the true value of these events and conferences and they understand that it is a business tool; this is not a vacation," she said.

MassMutual--like Anthem--will not look to hold training, education and recognition events outside North America, and will hold many of those non-incentive meetings in its conference center located in Springfield, Mass., said Young. "We have an upcoming meeting in Europe. We canceled an offsite venue that was going to be considered 'over the top,' and we are holding it at the hotel instead," Young said. "[The AIG effect] has helped all of us to come to the table better prepared and better able to articulate our value."

Even if "two years from now people will be wanting to go back to those places," Young said, "as professionals [we can] make sure that our companies don't make short-term decisions that won't serve us well in the long run." She does expect scrutiny to fade, though, and companies to resume previous meeting planning patterns. For now, Young brought in a third-party meeting planning team to help leverage some of its buying power to negotiate some of the penalties that MassMutual might incur due to cancellations.

"What we have been doing is moving those meetings in-house and adding a charitable component to it, whether it is cooking meals, painting tables for women and children's shelters, building bicycles for boys and girls clubs," said Smith. "The sales teams we work with can then publicize the fact that when they are out with brokers or chambers of commerce for meetings: They are doing something good for the community, but we are also having this meeting and supporting the local community."

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Cancelling Business Meetings

2009-04-10T10:26:00.001-04:00

Cancelling Business Meetings: Proper Etiquette

I just got off the telephone with a business colleague a few minutes ago who was cancelling our meeting today because he had to help his dad out. This is a meeting HE scheduled and wanted! This was the fifth meeting I have scheduled in the last two months, at the other person's request to meet with me, and THEY have cancelled. If you could see me now, steam is coming out of my ears, just like one of those Warner Bros. cartoon characters! What is happening in society that we cannot keep appointments?

Please don't get me wrong, I understand that things happen. However, remember that when you are cancelling that meeting, you are saying whatever just came up is more important than you are. Ouch! That hurts! Therefore, here is what I recommend you do to keep a good business relationship:

If you need to reschedule, call the person as soon as you know. It doesn't matter if it is 11 pm at night, leave a voicemail and, if you have time, leave an email.
Be honest about what your commitment is and make sure that if you were in the other person's shoes you would agree it is a legitimate reason to change. Would you buy it? Remember, you are hoping to get referrals or business out of that individual, so make sure it is reasonable. Here are some excuses I have heard lately:
1. "My dad needs my help doing a project" – not worthy
2. "I'm under a deadline" – not worthy (means you can't handle your workload)
3. "I have to meet with another client" – not worthy unless it is the only time and day the client can meet
Before you call or email the colleague, have a plan! Your call should go something like this, "Hello ________________, I am so sorry but I need to reschedule our meeting next week because ____________________________. However, I would be happy to meet with you on (Date and time), or (Date and time) or (Date and time) – you choose! In addition, because I have had to cancel this meeting, I will pay for our (lunch or coffee)!" Please give them three options!
Lastly, maybe you are a "casual" scheduler or last minute person. That's okay but don't assume everyone else is the same. I schedule my appointments several weeks out and I stick to my commitments unless something major comes up.

If you do this from now on, you will have more business and you will receive more referrals. Try to be as courteous to other people's time as you are with your own time. We are all busy – but don't screw up someone else's day by CANCELING!

Putting the Meeting Industry in Perspective

2009-03-10T10:40:00.001-04:00

Want to lose one million more jobs?

Just keep talking.

All Americans are angry at the recent revelations of bad judgment and excess by some corporate leaders - especially when the result is a taxpayer-funded clean up.

However, targeting business meetings and events is the wrong answer.

With their political rhetoric and shortsighted legislation, Congress is sending a message to TARP recipients and every other business that Congress doesn't want those meetings to happen. The results are predictable. Thousands of companies — not just TARP recipients — are cancelling their meetings out of fear.

For every meeting that is cancelled, jobs are lost — it's that simple — and it's happening all across the country. 1 out of every 8 jobs in this country is linked to travel and tourism – and those Americans will be even angrier if they lose their job because of political rhetoric.

The overwhelming majority of business meetings are not for senior executives — they are for top salespersons, high performing employees, valued customers, and business partners. Business is done and companies grow because of these meetings and events.

We've released a code of conduct for companies using taxpayer dollars. We encourage Congress and Treasury to embrace these standards — and stop the rhetoric. Visit our website for more details — www.meetingsmeanbusiness.com.

Meetings

mean business.

Making the case for an your next meeting and event

2009-02-11T17:49:00.000-05:00

Independent planners have more ammunition than ever to justify their events because during economic slowdowns, companies must make a greater effort to motivate their employees, cultivate customers, and keep competitors at bay. Done right, events are powerful tools that help meet these objectives.
"Now more than ever, events are important ways for communities to come together and to re-engage, revitalize, become inspired and improve skills," said Gail Bower, a meeting and events industry consultant and planner.
Once you understand the client's business, you can address specific objectives that a meeting might fulfill. The one objective that makes meetings especially easy to justify-especially in this economy is increasing sales. In fact, events such as trade shows, client dinners, and distributor conferences usually result in a clearly visible spike in revenue.
More importantly, sales generated through an event are remarkably cost-efficient.
A recent survey by the Center for Exhibition Industry Research shows that the total cost of closing a sale without trade show participation averages US $1,140 compared to $705 for a show-generated lead.
Dallas Teague Snider, an independent meeting planner, and founder of Make Your Best Impression, points out that many businesses make the mistake of cutting back on their event and marketing spend at a time when they should be ramping their spending up.
Cutting back on visibility, reducing the number of events held or even canceling engagements outright might signal to clients that the company is having financial problems or that it is not committed to serving a particular niche during the downturn. It also opens a wide gap for competitors.
While these arguments might seem logical to anyone with event expertise, they can sometimes fall flat without data to back them up. Dan Hoffend, vice president of corporate account sales for event management firm Freeman, points out those smart meeting planners who have been collecting ROI data on their events all along can now pull out those spreadsheets and argue their case without breaking a sweat.
One of his favorite ways of measuring ROI is to quiz participants before and after each meeting. For example, Hoffend might ask attendees whether they recognize the host company's brand, how much they know about its products and whether they see any partnership opportunities. The difference between the answers generated before and after the event can be easily translated into data that shows whether the company succeeded in its mission.
"The questionnaires can give clear results showing that you have succeeded in moving attendees from one point to another," Hoffend said. "If the value of your event is clear, then you're always going to have a justification for it."
Amanda Stranack, director of event services at Inntel in London, points out that questionnaires can also be sent out months after an event has taken place-so if you don't have the data in your archives already, it's not too late to start gathering it. Sometimes it is even worth it to hire a professional market research firm to conduct formal surveys, adds Stranack, whose clients include companies in the transportation, telecommunications, and finance industries.
In addition to the tangible value produced by events, there is also a huge intangible benefit to be reaped from personal meetings, Bower says. She points out there is a priceless connection built between company and customer when they have the chance to interact.
"Corporations might be able to demonstrate a product better or showcase how friendly, thorough and expert their sales team is at a face-to-face meeting," she said.
When selling intangible products, for example insurance policies, companies can benefit from giving customers a chance to put a face to the brand.
This intangible benefit applies particularly to incentives and other events meant to motivate employees. Personal meetings help give employees pride in their organization and offer the best platform to send a uniform message about the company's strategy, Rubinsky says.
Especially in this economy, it is crucial to motivate employees, and help salespeople keep an upbeat attitude they can pass on to their customers.
"It's important to feel better about work, because then you work better," said Priscilla Leherle, Paris-based manager of Eventus in France, Belgium and Luxembourg, whose company organizes corporate team-building events.
"Team-building events are not just about having fun, they're about creating positive effects for the company," she said.
Some of the positive effects that her clients have seen include a happier workforce, also one that is more productive, more cooperative, and able to harness the power of team thinking.
Motivational events are particularly important in this climate to keep the sales force engaged, experts say.
"Everybody is so negative at the moment, and that's not good," Bartlett said. "If you're in a sales meeting with someone and they're negative, you don't want to do business with that person."
Unfortunately, motivational events have come under particular scrutiny from the public over the past year.
In October, insurance company AIG was publicly shamed for holding a lavish retreat. As AIG pointed out at the time, most of the attendees were top-producing independent insurance agents, and most corporate experts agree that such events are necessary to keep salespeople motivated.
"Corporations need to hold employee recognition events...to bolster the confidence of employees so they take ownership of the current situation and roll up their sleeves," said Pat Ahaesy, founder of P&V Enterprises in New York.
One important detail to keep in mind when trying to explain the value of events to clients, however, is that it is pointless to try to justify value unless one actually creates value. Independent meeting planners especially-who have to prove their worth with every event they sell-must be sure to give clients maximum bang for the buck.
"An event can be a powerful marketing experience, not just a reason for people to stand around in fancy clothes sipping cocktails," Bower said.
At the same time, it's key to consider the client's plight as well, instead of just putting on the hard sell, Ahaesy says. Moreover, she should know. A few days after Sept. 11, 2001, the independent meeting planner called one of her largest clients, a Manhattan-based financial firm that had lost its headquarters, half of its staff and its founder in the terrorist attacks. The firm was considering canceling a client-appreciation party that was to be held just a month later.
"I called them to ask, 'Is there anything I can do for you?'" Ahaesy recalled.
When her counterpart told her the firm might scrap the event, she did not flinch. She pointed out that staying on schedule would demonstrate that the company had survived the tragedy, reassure clients, and help bring employees together. However, she also showed sympathy.
"I said to them, 'If you decide not to do it, I understand, and there will be no penalty to you whatsoever,'" she recalled.
Similarly, independent planners should be wary of trying to justify every event regardless of its value, at the risk of squandering their clients' trust.
Inntel's Stranack says she often agrees with clients when they ask her to take an event off the roster.
"Sometimes I say to them, 'Yes, you're absolutely right.' That message can be communicated just as well by e-mail," Stranack said. "I try to give my clients a sensible answer, rather than just doing everything to secure one event."
By working in partnership with your client, winning their trust as an event and meeting advisor, you are much more likely to have success keeping their business through bad times and good.

Is Your Meeting or Event a Legitimate Business Expense?

2009-02-09T20:35:00.002-05:00

With all the talk in the news about excessive executive retreats in Las Vegas and other lavish meetings, it has made all executives and managers a bit on edge about what are considered necessary and unnecessary meeting or events.

Please rest assured that most meetings and events are needed to communicate the organization’s message and/or put them in a competitive posture. However, the meeting and travel industry has put all this in prospective with their message below.

Examples of Legitimate Business Purposes for Meetings and Events

All business expenditures authorized in these challenging circumstances, all proposed expenditures for meetings and events should be made to strengthen the competitive position of the company in the marketplace and position the company for the creation of long-term value and growth. Below is a representative list of legitimate business purposes for meetings and events:

• Corporate-sponsored charity events
• Employee meetings because of company mergers and/or acquisitions for the purpose of alignment of products, brands, and cultures
• Employee recognition programs to motivate and reward employees for achievement and productivity.
• Product development events designed to generate feedback for research and development purposes.
• Product launches to educate sales force, channel partners, and customers
• Professional conferences that provide networking, education and best practice sharing across companies and industries
• Sales conferences and employee meetings to align vision, strategy, and tactics
• Trade shows that bring prospective buyers and sellers together
• Training and staff development meetings – learning environments conducive to adult learning and professional development, improving participants' skills at their trade and/or their familiarity with the company's products or services
• User conferences for customers utilizing the company's products or services to obtain feedback, build networks, provide product training, and capture ideas for enhancements to the company's product offerings.

Developed by the American Hotel and Lodging Association, Destination Marketing Association International, International Association of Exhibitions and Events, Meeting Professionals International, National Business Travel Association, Professional Convention Management Association, Society of Incentive Travel Executives and the U.S. Travel Association in consultation with Maritz, Inc.

Weekly Motivational Message and Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-07T11:54:00.001-05:00

Last Week we focuses on The Lowdown on Liquids.

What strategies are you using to add more liquids into your day?

How does drinking more liquids make you feel? Tell me about it.

This Week our topic is Advanced Skills, including SetPOINTS Values

The success of the Momentum plan comes from introducing more advanced and useful weight-loss skills as you go along. Come into the meeting and learn a new skill that can make it easier for you to eat away from home.

I know for Valentine's Day we usually focus on chocolate and flowers. Here are some other ways to say "I love you" without all the calories! For non-chocolate ways to say you care try:

A fruit basket

A three-month membership in a fruit-of-the-month club

A basket of gourmet salsas and marinades

A Weight Watchers cookbook

A series of cooking classes

A few personal training sessions

A pre-paid gym membership

A pretty basket filled with scented candles and lotions

A gift certificate to treatments at a day spa or

A weekend spa vacation.

Remember:

FREE Registration is going on now -- Bring a friend!

NO missed meeting fees!

NEW MOMENTUM Plan!

See you at the meeting,

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Streetsboro, Cuyahoga Falls, Bainbridge, and Hudson since 2002

"Cultivate Openess."

Weekly Motivational Message

2009-01-31T11:09:00.001-05:00

Good Snowy and Cold Morning Everyone,

Last week we focused on Setting Inspirational Goals. We always want to have our end plan in mind (Lifetime Achievement and Goal Weight) but we also need small inspirational steps to make it happen. Have you set your long-range goal yet? What about your 1st goal?

Remember, the journey of 1,000 miles begins with one step. Look in your Pocket Guide for your long-term goal and then start with your 1st step.By having both your long-term and short-term goals in mind, did it help you make better choices last week?

This week we are focusing on The Lowdown on Liquids. With Super Bowl Sunday just around the corner, we need to understand the importance of all liquids in our weight-loss efforts. We changed our liquids guideline when we introduced the Momentum program. If you don't know how we changed our guidelines, now is a great time to come back to Weight Watchers and learn because...

...FREE registration

...No missed meeting fees

...New Momentum program

See you at the meeting and think about "Mindful Eating" while you are watching the game!

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Streetsboro, Bainbridge, Cuyahoga Falls, and Hudson since 2002

"I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know; the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve." -- Dr. Albert Schweitzer

Weekly Motivational Message

2009-01-10T13:41:00.001-05:00

Good Snowy Afternoon Everyone!

Last week we spoke about KISS -- Keep it Simple and Sustainable

Which of the 7steps for success did you make your own this week? Tell me about it!

Which of the Filling Foods are you finding really make a difference?

This week our topic is Balancing your POINTS Values

Feelings of hunger and deprivation are two big reasons that weight-loss efforts are abandoned before members successfully reach their ultimate weight goals. Success is not going to happen overnight or in 1, 2 or 3 weeks. You need to find ways to follow the plan and incorporate favorite foods.

FREE Registration -- bring a friend!

NO MISSED MEETING Fees -- come back!

NEW MOMENTUM Program!

This is your year -- See you at the meeting,

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Streetsboro, Cuyahoga Falls, and Hudson since 2002

"Man's mind, once streatch by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions." -- Oliver Wendell Holmes

Live inside integrity.

Weekly Motivational Message

2009-01-03T12:20:00.001-05:00

Last week we discussed What do I want in 2009?

Did you identify a habit from 2008 you want to continue this year?

How did it affect your week?

What steps are you taking that will make your 2009 more successful?

This week's topic is KISS (Keep It Simple & Sustainable

We will outline the new Momentum plan and build on two simple concepts: choosing the right foods and tracking your food intake.

We will also explore the Seven Steps for Success as proven strategies for sustaining your weight-loss efforts.

FREE registration!

NO MISSED meeting FEES!

NEW momentum plan!

See you at the meeting,

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Streetsboro, Cuyahoga Falls, and Hudson since 2002

"Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises." -- Demosthenes

"Listen to what is not said."

Weekly Motivational Message

2008-12-27T17:09:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Last week we spoke about Planning for Holiday Success -- Part 2.

How are Filling Foods helping you manage holiday eating?

What tools or resources helped you think your way through events?

Next week our topic will be: What do I Want in 2009?

Take stock of where you are now and consider in what direction you would like to travel in during the new year. In next week's meeting, you are encouraged to review the past year with a focus on learning from your experiences. After acknowledging your successes, you can create Winning Outcomes for the New Year, incorporating behaviors and habits that worked as well as ways you want to behave differently.

FREE Registration NOW!

NO MISSED MEETING FEES!

Bring a Friend!

Learn about MOMENTUM!

Discover the importance of the 3 month Journal!

See you at the meeting,

De-de

Diamond Weight Watchers Leader in Streetsboro, Cuyahoga Falls, and Hudson since 2002

"I don't think much of a man who is not wiser today than he was yesterday." -- Abraham Lincoln

Let the world be your teacher.

Planning for Holiday Success -- Part 1

2008-12-13T11:59:00.001-05:00

Good Morning All,

How do you all like the Momentum Plan?

Who chose Filling Foods this week? Which ones did you choose?

What did you discover in your Book 1: Start Eating Smarter?

What is best about the new Pocket Guide?

Next week we will focus on Planning for Holiday Success.

Are seasonal challenges and indulgences tempting you to give up on weight loss altogether until January? The Momentum plan can help insulate you from December setbacks with encouragement from the meetings and by moving more. The tips you will receive this week with the new Momentum plan books can help you keep motivated for weight loss throughout the holidays, while still enjoying the spirit of the season.

Cookbooks and the "Start Living, Start Losing" book are still 1/2 off until 1/3/09!

Remember to have your loved one email me if you want any WW items, including the 10 week pass for $109. I will gift wrap the items and then they need to meet me to pick up and pay for the items.

FREE registration and NO MISSED MEETING FEES start on 12/23/08!

Happy Holidays and I hope to see you this week,

De-de

Weight Watchers Leader in Streetsboro, Aurora , Cuyahoga Falls , and Hudson since 2002

2008 Diamond Leader

Mulligan Management Group, LLC

What NOT having a Business Card Says About You

i-Meet Announces Peer Marketing Solution

Should You Outsource Your Meeting to An Independent Meeting Planner?

Good News For Meeting Planners

Best Careers 2011: Meeting Planner - US News and World Report

Think You Know that Meeting Space? You don't know jack!

Hudsonhubtimes.com - Hudson Farmers Market opens (with VIDEO and PICTURES)

Convene Salary Survey Highlights the Value of the CMP

Convene Salary Survey Highlights the Value of the CMP

Hell-o-o! Is anyone listening to our client's objections?

Pros and Cons of Hiring Full-Time, Contract, or Outsourced Help

The 2010 Global Innovation 1000: How the Top Innovators Keep Winning

Virtual Events: Real Results with Real Companies

Alternative Community Services, Inc. helps disenfranchised Veterans "Bridge the Gap"

2 trade shows in 2 weeks with 2 different feels

Top Google Result Gets 36.4% of Clicks [Study] #SEWatch

Seth's Blog: The opportunity is here

10 Reasons Social Media Matters for Today's Event Planner

Meetings Mean Business.

Make Your Conference More Lady Gaga-istic

HowardGivner.com

The Death of Sponsorship? | Business Blogs

Hudson Jazz Fest

SPIN: The Senior Planners Industry Network - Home

Game - No, the Serious Business - of Give and Take - Meetings & Events | Cvent Events

What Meeting Planners Can Learn from the Groupon Fiasco at the Super Bowl

http://cypressmedia.net/articles/article/32/seven_reasons_why_traditional_trade_shows_still_matter

Conference News - Event Management Compaines - PCMA's 55th Annual Meeting Sets Attendance Record - Successful Meetings

Training location - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

25% off Telephone and Email Consulting for Meetings and Special Events - Promotions - Eventective Forums

What Makes A Party Meaningful and/or Fun? - Parties - Eventective Forums

Training location - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

Best Careers 2011: Meeting Planner - US News and World Report

Conference News - Research White Papers - PMUSA Previews 2011 Meetings Trends - Successful Meetings

Holiday Party Offer -- Take 10% off by mentioning where you saw this offer - Promotions - Eventective Forums

Mobile & iPad Event Registration Solutions Deployed At LCWE 2010 | Suppliers

30th Birthday Party HELP~~ - Parties - Eventective Forums

NEED A ROOM FOR LARGE BABY SHOWER IN THE NORTHERN KENTUCKY AREA - Parties - Eventective Forums

Eventective - Forum Add Post

Looking for a promoter for our events, any advice? - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

Hikes in Bed Tax Rejected

Looking for a VENUE for Company get together - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

looking for event venue to hold 500 plus - Corporate Events - Eventective Forums

What Makes Jim Traficant So Controversial?

What Makes Jim Traficant Interesting?

Move for Good

Stop the Eat-a-thon

Are You Snack Savvy?

Push Past Plateus

Fw: Don't forget to Pack your Plan

The art of estimating

Beyond the Basics: Making Tracking Work for You

When Hunger Comes Calling

Hudson Clocktower Rotary Installation Dinner Invitation

You and a Guest are Cordially Invited to the

Hudson Clocktower Rotary

Installation Dinner

Wednesday, June 9, 2010The Country Club of Hudson, 2155 Middleton Road6 PM Reception, 6:30 PM Dinner, 7:30 PM Recognition and Installation

Cash Bar * Rustic Chicken * House Salad * Rolls & Butter Bow Tie Pasta * Green Beans Almandine

* Strawberry Whip Cream Cake * Coffee, Tea, & Iced Tea

$30 Per Person

Please Make Your Reservation by Friday, June 4, 2010 to dede@mulliganmanagementgroup.com

Building a Foundation of Support

An Insider's Guide to Dining Out

Monitoring Yourself : A Journey of Self-Discovery

Step Up to the Walk-It Challenge

Buddy Up!

Going from Oops to Wow!

Become a Portion Pro

Celebrating Progress

Spice it Up!

The Wieght-Loss Friendly Kitchen

Take Charge When Dining Out

Fw: Weight Watchers Open House EVERY Saturday in February from 1 to 4 PM!

Put Yourself First

De-de Mulligan would like to connect with you on Yahoo!

Motivation Makeover

Emotional Hunger vs. Physical Hunger

Moving Matters

Wednesday, June 9, 2010
The Country Club of Hudson, 2155 Middleton Road
6 PM Reception, 6:30 PM Dinner, 7:30 PM Recognition and Installation

Cash Bar * Rustic Chicken * House Salad * Rolls & Butter
Bow Tie Pasta * Green Beans Almandine

* Strawberry Whip Cream Cake
* Coffee, Tea, & Iced Tea

Please Make Your Reservation by Friday, June 4, 2010 to
dede@mulliganmanagementgroup.com